The storage-stuffed iPad Apple was announced just last week. It is identical to the fourth-generation iPad that Apple launched last year, except that it doubles the then-highest storage option of 64GB. And with the extra 64GB comes a bump in price. Apple's 128GB iPad starts at $799 for the Wi-Fi-only model, and those who want cellular connectivity will need to pay $929.

As of this writing, the Wi-Fi-only model is available to ship in one to three business days. Interestingly, the version capable of connecting to AT&T's network is also listed as available in one to three business days. The Sprint and Verizon versions, however, will require customers to wait three to five business days.

Much has been made about the 128GB iPad's price, which is just shy of a full-blown Mac notebook. For Apple, however, the additional storage provides a nicely profitable scenario. Last week, IHS analyst Andrew Rassweiler told CNET in an e-mailed statement that Apple pays about 55 cents per gigabyte of additional storage in its iPads. So, to add an extra 64GB to the iPad costs the company about $35.20. However, the 128GB option costs $100 more than the 64GB version.

About the author

Don Reisinger is a technology columnist who has covered everything from HDTVs to computers to Flowbee Haircut Systems. Besides his work with CNET, Don's work has been featured in a variety of other publications including PC World and a host of Ziff-Davis publications.
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